USC Men's Basketball to Face Gonzaga In Charity Exhibition Game at Acrisure Arena

LOS ANGELES – USC men's basketball and Gonzaga have announced a charity exhibition game at Acrisure Arena on Sat., Oct. 26 at 5:00 p.m. PT.

This season's matchup will be the fifth all-time meeting between USC and Gonzaga. The Trojans and Bulldog's are 2-2 all-time and first faced off in 1992 when USC won 77-60. Last December, the Zags beat the Trojans 89-76 at the Las Vegas Invitational.

During the 2023-24 season, Gonzaga went 27-8 as a squad and finished the season in the NCAA Midwest Regional Semifinal (fell to Purdue).

In this high-octane pre-season matchup, fans will witness elite competition while contributing to a great cause, as proceeds will help support Eisenhower Health's growing Cardiovascular Institute, supporting their lifesaving work in the Coachella Valley.

Tickets for this event go on sale Friday, October 11, at 10 a.m. PT at Ticketmaster.com, the official ticketing provider of Acrisure Arena, with a presale available on Thursday, October 10, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. PT. Ticket prices start at just $25 plus applicable fees. More info available at https://acrisurearena.com/event/gonzaga-vs-usc/.

Additionally, Acrisure Arena invites fans to experience an exclusive limited-capacity backyard playground just steps away from the action on stage. For a premium fan experience, attendees can enhance their game day with a Flight Pass for $27.50, granting access to The Compound, an exclusive outdoor VIP premium space with a full-service bar and generous buffet for purchase. The Compound includes cozy fire pits with couches for lounging, 9-hole mini golf, bocce ball, half-court basketball and pickle ball court, and more. Learn More HERE and then purchase for Gonzaga vs. USC on Saturday, October 26, HERE.

Acrisure Arena is celebrating collegiate basketball for the month of October. All paid ticket holders of the Gonzaga vs USC Exhibition Game will receive a promo code to receive the same number of complimentary tickets to the upcoming Acrisure Series, taking place November 26 – 29, 2024.

"We're excited to play a high-quality program like USC in such a spectacular location," Gonzaga Head Coach Mark Few said. "I know we have a lot of fans in the area that are thrilled for the game. We are also grateful to play for such a worthy cause and help anyway we can. This will be a great way for our team to get ready for the season."

USC Head Coach Eric Musselman echoed Coach Few's sentiments, adding: "We are really excited for the opportunity to play Gonzaga at Acrisure Arena. Gonzaga is one of the best programs in the country, and Mark Few is one of the best leaders in the country. This exhibition game will be a great test for our team and allow us to compete against a very well-coached team prior to the start of our non-conference schedule."

"Bringing two powerhouse programs like Gonzaga and USC to Acrisure Arena showcases the incredible potential of college basketball and its impact on both the sports world and local communities," said Dan Shell, Senior Vice President at United Talent Agency. "This exhibition game a testament to the growing popularity of college sports and offers a unique opportunity to support the vital work of Eisenhower Health. We're excited to play a role in elevating this event and contributing to such an important cause."

"Bringing two of college basketball's elite programs to Greater Palm Springs is a slam dunk for fans and our community alike," said John Page, Senior Vice President of Acrisure Arena, CV Firebirds, and OVG360 Facilities. "This isn't just a game; it's an experience. From the electric atmosphere on the court to the chance to support the incredible work of Eisenhower Health, we're pulling out all the stops to make this an unforgettable event. We couldn't be more excited to see these powerhouse teams in action and to host this must-see showdown at Acrisure Arena!"

Eisenhower Health is honored to be chosen as the charity beneficiary for this exciting exhibition game between USC and Gonzaga," says Martin Massiello, President and Chief Executive Officer, Eisenhower Health. "The support from Acrisure Arena, the universities, and the community, will make a significant impact on fundraising efforts for our Cardiovascular Institute campaign, helping us to expand and enhance the cardiovascular services we provide. With heart disease continuing to be a leading health concern, these funds will allow us to better serve the needs of our patients and their families. We are grateful for this incredible opportunity to partner with such esteemed institutions and for the chance to raise awareness for cardiovascular health."

ABOUT ACRISURE ARENA:
America's hottest music festival destination finally has the world-class arena it deserves. Opened December 14, 2022, the Acrisure Arena provides the greater Palm Springs area of Southern California with a premiere 11,000+ capacity venue to host the biggest artists and acts on the planet. Designed specifically for hockey and concerts, the new arena provides top-tier hospitality, artist amenities, and all of the benefits of a modern music and sports venue. In addition, the facility will serve as the new home of the American Hockey League affiliate of the Seattle Kraken, the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

The Acrisure Arena is a $300+ million project that is being 100% privately funded through outstanding partners Oak View Group, Seattle Kraken, and Live Nation. Learn more at AcrisureArena.com and follow Acrisure Arena on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

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USC Men's Basketball to Face Gonzaga In Charity Exhibition Game at Acrisure Arena

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